Distributed/decentrallized power generation vs. Regional power generation

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the distinctions between "distributed" and "decentralized" power generation, emphasizing that distributed generation occurs at medium/low voltage levels within a grid, while decentralized generation involves independent small-sized units. Regional power generation is defined as generation connected solely to high voltage lines. The conversation also touches on the emerging trend of small modular nuclear reactors, which are designed for local grids or remote operations, highlighting their potential advantages in specific contexts despite concerns over nuclear waste handling and security costs.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrical grid structures and voltage levels
  • Knowledge of nuclear power generation technologies
  • Familiarity with small modular reactor (SMR) concepts
  • Awareness of energy generation and distribution terminology
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the operational principles of small modular reactors (SMRs)
  • Explore the implications of distributed generation on voltage regulation and line protection
  • Investigate the feasibility and safety measures of offshore nuclear generation
  • Study the economic comparisons between centralized and decentralized power generation systems
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Energy engineers, nuclear power specialists, policymakers, and anyone involved in the planning and implementation of power generation systems.

Jack8rkin
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Hello everyone!
Need help with understanding the terms "distributed/decentralized" vs. "regional power generation".
1. Is there any difference between the terms "distributed" and "decentralized" generation (of electricity)?
I thought "distributed" means generation of electricity on units joint in a grid, whereas "decentralized" means generating power on independed small-sized units.

2. Does the term "Regional power generation" exist at all?

Thank you
 
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It is my understanding that distributed generation is done on medium/low voltage levels. That is on a line (radial) with loads connected along the line (before and after the generator(s)). This can cause problems with voltage magnitude and protection of lines, among many other problems.

Regional power generation refers to generation connected (only) to high voltage lines/grid.

But there may be other definitions that is correct.
 
Thank you.
I do not know if I'm asking in the correct thread, but my question mostly relates to nuclear generation. There is such a tendency now that small-sized modular units are designed over the world and they are intended to operate either in local grids or individually (e.g. in off-shore oil rigs, or in remote regions whereto fuel is hard to deliver and nuclear generation becomes competitive).

Please, opinions are welcome!
 
My statement does not differentiate on what type of fuel used in generator.

I'm not familiar with small nuclear units, except at ships/sub. Although they are not "small" they either.

But if the transfer capacity of a tie-line between areas limits the loading in one remote area, then installing a generator unit without upgrading the line might be a effective measure (w.r.t. cost, environment e.g.).

But isn't nuclear waste handling and security very expensive? Thus 1 large station is more effective than 10 small?

Do you have a reference? Especially for offshore nuclear generation?
 
"Small" is just a term. It's used for reactors below 300 MW.
http://www.world-nuclear.org/info/inf33.html
Can't say much about off-shore generation. Just know that such possibilities are being studied.
 
http://www.wired.co.uk/news/archive/2011-01/21/deep-sea-fission
 
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